Edible compositions which are adapted for use by a companion animal

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein are a variety of embodiments of compositions and methods which are each adapted for use by a companion animal. In one embodiment, an edible composition comprising an amount of a soluble mineral component is disclosed, wherein the soluble mineral component comprises one or more minerals selected from the group consisting of zinc, manganese, tin, copper, and mixtures thereof, wherein the amount is an effective amount for use as an oral medicament. In further embodiments, a phosphate component is included. The edible compositions are advantageously companion animal foods or supplements. Further disclosed are methods selected from treating oral cavity tartar, oral cavity plaque, periodontal disease, gingivitis, breath odor and combinations thereof comprising orally administering a described composition to a companion animal.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to compositions and methods which areuseful for the treatment of conditions associated with the oral cavityof a companion animal. In particular, the invention relates to the useof defined edible compositions which are adapted for use by thecompanion animal.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Plaque is initiated when bacteria forms a proteinaceous film on thesurface of teeth. The adherent bacteria metabolize dietary constituentsand reproduce and aggregate to form the tenacious deposit known asplaque. Plaque generally consists of bacteria, bacterial end productssuch as polysaccharides, inorganic salts and salivary proteins. Plaquebacteria ferment dietary carbohydrates to organic acids whichdemineralize enamel resulting in tooth decay.

Calculus and tartar are essentially plaque that has been mineralizedwith calcium phosphate salts. As calculus hardens to tartar, it tends tostain noticeably due to adsorption of dietary chromagens. In addition totheir unattractive appearance, these deposits at the gum line are acontributing source of gingivitis and periodontal disease. Besides thehygienic and health problems that result, research has shown that theprimary source of bad breath is the retention and subsequent degradationof dead cellular material sloughed off continuously by the normal,healthy oral cavity.

The initiation of plaque or growth of calculus and tartar presents aparticular challenge in companion animals, such as dogs or cats, whereinthe oral cavities and teeth of such animals may not be cleaned on aregular basis, or even at all. As such, issues such as tartar andplaque, breath malodor, and the like are particularly troublesome. Evenfurther, conventional methods utilized by humans to clean the oralcavity, such as prophylactic and therapeutic treatment by a dentalprofessional or even regular tooth brushing or flossing, is impracticalor difficult with all companion animals. Still further, foods or otherorally available compositions have only recently been investigated aspotential tools for approaching these issues. These issues not onlycompromise the oral health of the companion animal, but the systemichealth as well since poor oral health may lead to systemic infection orother issues. As such, there remains a significant need to provideadvances in the treatment of oral health of the companion animal.

Recently, polyphosphates or other phosphate components have beenincluded as part of a companion animal diet in order to address theforegoing issues. For example, IAMS and EUKANUBA foods, commerciallyavailable from The Iams Company, Dayton, Ohio) which are adapted forcertain companion animals currently provide phosphate components, andare designed for improvements in oral health. Opportunities are stillavailable for further improvements. However, many approaches utilizedfor human oral health may not be readily adaptable for companion animalsdue to a variety of reasons, including organoleptic needs, reduction inefficacy upon combination with other components, and the like.

The present invention utilizes a mineral component as part of acomposition adaptable for use by a companion animal. The mineralcomponent is provided in a variety of embodiments, which have beendesigned by the present inventors to reduce the issues presented bycertain minerals such as zinc, copper, tin, and manganese. For example,the inventors have discovered that the mineral component may be providedin compositions adapted for companion animal use, and that otherpreferred executions may be designed to avoid issues such ascomplexation with phosphate and unacceptable flavor. These and otherbenefits of the present invention are described herein.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a variety of embodiments ofcompositions and methods which are each adapted for use by a companionanimal.

In one embodiment, the invention is directed to an edible compositioncomprising an amount of a soluble mineral component, wherein the solublemineral component comprises two or more minerals selected from the groupconsisting of zinc, manganese, tin, copper, and mixtures thereof,wherein the amount is an effective amount for use as an oral medicament.In another embodiment, the invention is directed to an ediblecomposition comprising:

-   -   (a) an amount of a soluble mineral component, wherein the        soluble mineral component comprises one or more minerals        selected from the group consisting of zinc, manganese, tin,        copper, and mixtures thereof; wherein the amount is an effective        amount for use as an oral medicament; and    -   (b) a further amount of a phosphate component, wherein the        further amount is an effective amount for use as an oral        medicament;        wherein the edible composition is selected from the group        consisting of companion animal foods companion animal        supplements, and combinations thereof, wherein the companion        animal supplement is not a chew.

In yet another embodiment, the invention is directed to an ediblecomposition comprising:

-   -   (a) an amount of a mineral component comprising one or more        minerals selected from the group consisting of zinc, manganese,        tin, copper, and mixtures thereof, wherein the amount is an        effective amount for use as an oral medicament, and wherein at        least a portion of the mineral component is coated on the        surface of the edible composition;    -   (b) a further amount of a phosphate component, wherein the        further amount is an effective amount for use as an oral        medicament;        wherein the edible composition is a companion animal chew.

In yet another embodiment, the invention is directed to an ediblecomposition comprising:

-   -   (a) an amount of a mineral component comprising a mineral        selected from the group consisting of zinc, manganese, tin,        copper, and mixtures thereof, wherein the amount is an effective        amount for use as an oral medicament; and    -   (b) a further amount of a phosphate component, wherein the        further amount is an effective amount for use as an oral        medicament, and wherein at least a portion of the phosphate        component is coated on the surface of the edible composition;        wherein the edible composition is a companion animal chew.

In yet another embodiment, the invention is directed to an ediblecomposition comprising:

-   -   (a) an amount of a mineral component comprising a mineral        selected from the group consisting of manganese, tin, copper,        and mixtures thereof, wherein the amount is an effective amount        for use as an oral medicament;    -   (b) a further amount of a phosphate component, wherein the        further amount is an effective amount for use as an oral        medicament;        wherein the edible composition is a companion animal chew.

The invention is further directed to methods selected from treating oralcavity plaque, oral cavity tartar (defined herein as includingcalculus), periodontal disease, gingivitis, breath odor and combinationsthereof comprising orally administering a composition provided herein tothe companion animal.

Each embodiment is adapted for use by a companion animal.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Various documents including, for example, publications and patents, arerecited throughout this disclosure. All such documents are herebyincorporated by reference. The citation of any given document is not tobe construed as an admission that it is prior art with respect to thepresent invention.

All percentages and ratios are calculated by weight unless otherwiseindicated. All percentages and ratios are calculated based on the totalcomposition unless otherwise indicated.

Referenced herein are trade names for components including variousingredients utilized in the present invention. The inventors herein donot intend to be limited by materials under a certain trade name.Equivalent materials (e.g., those obtained from a different source undera different name or reference number) to those referenced by trade namemay be substituted and utilized in the descriptions herein.

In the description of the invention various embodiments or individualfeatures are disclosed. As will be apparent to the ordinarily skilledpractitioner, all combinations of such embodiments and features arepossible and can result in preferred executions of the presentinvention.

The compositions herein may comprise, consist essentially of, or consistof any of the features or embodiments as described herein.

While various embodiments and individual features of the presentinvention have been illustrated and described, various other changes andmodifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention. As will also be apparent, all combinations of theembodiments and features taught in the foregoing disclosure are possibleand can result in preferred executions of the invention.

The present invention is directed to compositions, kits, and methodswhich are adapted for use by companion animals. As used herein,“companion animal” means a domestic animal. Preferably, “companionanimal” means a domestic dog, cat, rabbit, ferret, horse, cow, or thelike. More preferably, “companion animal” means a domestic dog or cat,particularly a domestic dog.

The term “effective amount” as described herein, will be readilydeterminable by the ordinarily skilled artisan. As used herein, the term“effective amount,” with reference to a specific component, means thatamount of the component sufficient to provide a significant improvementof the relevant treatment in a companion animal, yet low enough to avoidadverse effects (such as toxicity, irritation, or allergic response),commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio when used in themanner of the present invention. The specific “effective amount” mayvary with such factors as the particular condition being treated,whether the administered composition is ingested frequently orsporadically, the nature of concurrent therapy (if any), the specificdosage form to be used (e.g., food, biscuit, chew), and the like.

Compositions of the Present Invention

The compositions herein are adapted for use by a companion animal. Inthis respect, as will be well understood by the ordinarily skilledartisan, the primary use of the compositions described herein is forcompanion animal use and the compositions are therefore formulated assuch.

The present compositions are, in the most advantageous embodiments,nutritionally desirable, stable, possess the ability to sequestercalcium, inhibit bacterial growth, inhibit plaque, inhibit tartar(defined herein as including calculus), improve malodor of the oralcavity, and/or the like. The invention is further advantageous for theinhibition of periodontal disease, gingivitis, breath odor, and thelike.

The various embodiments described herein each comprise a soluble mineralcomponent. As used herein, the term “soluble” with respect to themineral component means that at least about 50% of the mineralcomponent, by weight of the mineral component, dissolves in a sample ofwater (in an amount typically present during mastication) at ambienttemperature. Optionally, the term “soluble” with respect to the mineralcomponent means that at least about 75%, or at least about 90%, of themineral component, again by weight of the mineral component dissolves inthis sample of water (in an amount typically present during mastication)at ambient temperature.

The composition comprises an amount of the soluble mineral componentwhich is an effective amount for use as an oral medicament, as has beendefined herein above. As an example, the composition may optionallycomprise at least about 0.01%, or at least about 0.02%, or at leastabout 0.05%, or at least about 0.1%, or at least about 0.15% of themineral component, by weight of the composition. As a further example,the composition may optionally comprise from about 0.01% to about 10%,or from about 0.02% to about 5%, or from about 0.05% to about 5%, orfrom about 0.1% to about 2%, or from about 0.15% to about 1%, of themineral component, by weight of the composition. Specific illustrativeamounts of each mineral which may be utilized in the mineral componentare described below.

The soluble mineral component comprises one or more minerals selectedfrom zinc, manganese, tin, copper, and mixtures thereof. Variousembodiments described herein may comprise two or more, or three, or allfour of these minerals. Moreover, the minerals from which selections maybe drawn may be modified, for example wherein the minerals are selectedfrom manganese, tin, copper, and mixtures thereof. Each of theseminerals, including exemplary sources and amounts, are described asfollows:

The soluble mineral component may comprise zinc. Sources of zinc whichwill contribute to a soluble mineral component will be well-known tothose of ordinary skill in the art. Illustrative sources of zinc includezinc sulfate, zinc gluconate, zinc chloride, zinc citrate, zinc lactate,zinc malate, zinc tartrate, and mixtures thereof. Zinc sulfatemonohydrate is a particularly preferred zinc source. Zinc citrate mayimpart enhanced palatability relative to certain other zinc sources dueto chelation with the citrate. Wherein the composition comprises zinc,the composition may optionally comprise at least about 0.001% zinc ion,at least about 0.01% zinc ion, at least about 0.05% zinc ion, or atleast about 0.07% zinc ion, or at least about 0.1% zinc ion, by weightof the composition. As a further example, wherein the compositioncomprises zinc, the composition may optionally comprise from about0.001% to about 1%, or from about 0.005% to about 0.75%, or from about0.05% to about 0.5%, or from about 0.1% to about 0.4% zinc ion, all byweight of the composition.

The soluble mineral component may comprise tin. Sources of tin whichwill contribute to a soluble mineral component will be well-known tothose of ordinary skill in the art. Illustrative sources of tin includetin lactate, tin gluconate, tin acetate, tin sulfate, tin malate, andmixtures thereof. Wherein the composition comprises tin, the compositionmay optionally comprise at least about 0.0001% tin ion, at least about0.0005% tin ion, or at least about 0.001% tin ion, or at least about0.0015% tin ion, by weight of the composition. As a further example,wherein the composition comprises tin, the composition may optionallycomprise from about 0.0001% to about 0.5%, or from about 0.0005% toabout 0.1%, or from about 0.001% to about 0.05%, or from about 0.001% toabout 0.25% tin ion, all by weight of the composition.

The soluble mineral component may comprise copper. Sources of copperwhich will contribute to a soluble mineral component will be well-knownto those of ordinary skill in the art. Illustrative sources of copperinclude copper chloride, copper gluconate, copper sulfate, copperbisglycinate, copper lactate, copper malate, copper acetate, coppercitrate, copper tartrate, and mixtures thereof. Copper sulfatepentahydrate is particularly preferred herein. Wherein the compositioncomprises copper, the composition may optionally comprise at least about0.0005%, or at least about 0.01%, or at least about 0.015%, or at leastabout 0.02% copper ion, all by weight of the composition. As a furtherexample, wherein the composition comprises copper, the composition mayoptionally comprise from about 0.0005% to about 0.5%, or from about0.0005% to about 0.1%, or from about 0.01% to about 0.1%, or from about0.015% to about 0.05%, or from about 0.02% to about 0.25% copper ion,all by weight of the composition.

The soluble mineral component may comprise manganese. Sources ofmanganese which will contribute to a soluble mineral component will bewell-known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Illustrative sourcesof manganese include manganese chloride, manganese sulfate, manganesegluconate, manganese acetate, manganese malate, manganese tartrate,manganese citrate, manganese lactate, manganese glycinate, and mixturesthereof. Manganese sulfate monohydrate is particularly preferred herein.Wherein the composition comprises manganese, the composition mayoptionally comprise at least about 0.0001% manganese ion, or at leastabout 0.001%, or at least about 0.01%, or at least about 0.015%, or atleast about 0.02% manganese ion, by weight of the composition. As afurther example, wherein the composition comprises manganese, thecomposition may optionally comprise from about 0.0001% to about 1%, orfrom about 0.001% to about 0.5%, or from about 0.01% to about 0.5%, orfrom about 0.05% to about 0.4% manganese ion, all by weight of thecomposition.

In an optional embodiment herein, at least a portion of the mineralcomponent is coated on the surface of the composition. Consistent withthis embodiment, the inventors have discovered that the mineralcomponent can be provided on the surface of the composition withoutsubstantial compromise in the organoleptic, or other key properties ofthe composition. As such, the compositions are satisfactorilyadministered to the companion animal while providing optimized efficacysince the mineral component is readily available and quickly solubilizedin the oral cavity of the companion animal. Dosage forms such as foodsand supplements, including biscuits or chews, are desirable with thisembodiment. In a further preferred embodiment at least about 50% of themineral component, or at least about 75% of the mineral component, or atleast about 90% of the mineral component, or at least about 95% of themineral component, all by weight of the mineral component, is coated onthe surface of the composition.

In another optional embodiment herein, at least a portion of the mineralcomponent is integrated within the edible composition. This isparticularly desirable wherein the composition is in a dosage form whichis a companion animal chew, wherein the animal chews the compositionover an extended period of time. The inventors have discovered that, inthis embodiment, efficacy is enhanced through availability of themineral component over an extended period of time.

In one embodiment herein, the compositions comprise a mineral componentand a phosphate component. Unexpectedly, the inventors herein havedemonstrated that the benefits of compositions containing both of thesecomponents may be superior to those benefits achieved by eithercomponent alone, thereby resulting in a truly synergistic benefit. Thisdiscovery has been found as not limited to the chain length of phosphateutilized; rather, the benefits of the phosphate component may beenhanced when combined with mineral component, regardless of chainlength. The composition may optionally comprise an amount of a phosphatecomponent which is an effective amount for use as an oral medicament, ashas been defined herein above. Preferably, unlike the complexesdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,000,944, the mineral component and thephosphate component, or any individual components thereof, are notpresent as a complex in the composition.

The phosphate component comprises a component which contains at least 2phosphorous atoms. Illustrative compounds which may be utilized as thephosphate component include pyrophosphates, polyphosphates, or mixturesthereof. Kirk & Othmer, Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, 2^(nd) Ed.,Vol. 15 (1965), pp. 232 to 276, discloses a number of water-solubleinorganic pyrophosphate salts.

In one embodiment herein, at least a portion of the phosphate componentis a pyrophosphate. For example, inorganic pyrophosphates such as alkalimetal pyrophosphates including sodium acid pyrophosphate (SAPP) andtetrapotassium pyrophosphate (TKPP) may be utilized. Illustrativeexamples of SAPP include SAPP having a molecular weight of about 222.Also useful may be a tetraalkali metal pyrophosphate such astetralithium pyrophosphate. Examples of dialkaline metal pyrophosphatesare dicalcium pyrophosphate, dibarium pyrophosphate, and dimagnesiumpyrophosphate. Trialkali metal monoacid pyrophosphates such as trisodiumhydrogen pyrophosphate may also be used.

In another embodiment, at least a portion of the phosphate component isa polyphosphate. As will be readily understood in the art, as the chainlength of the polyphosphate increases, the polyphosphate is provided asmultiple length species having an average chain length. Polyphosphatesmay also be utilized herein, such as those polyphosphates having anaverage chain length of 3 or greater. Examples include tripolyphosphatessuch as sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP), SODAPHOS (average chain lengthof 7), HEXAPHOS (average chain length of 13) (commercially availablefrom FMC Corporation), other hexametaphosphate (such as, average chainlength of 21), and sodium acid metaphosphate. Illustrative examples ofhexametaphosphate include sodium hexametaphosphate or potassiumhexametaphosphate having a molecular weight of about 2200.

The phosphate component may be provided wherein at least a portion ofthe phosphate component is coated on the surface of the compositiori, atleast a portion of the phosphate component is integrated within thecomposition, or both.

Particularly preferred embodiments include those companion animal foodcompositions (for example, biscuits or chews) wherein the at least aportion of the mineral component is coated on the surface of thecomposition and at least a portion of the phosphate component isintegrated within the composition, or at least a portion of thephosphate component is coated on the surface of the composition and atleast a portion of the mineral component is integrated within thecomposition, or wherein at least a portion of both the mineral andphosphate components are coated on the surface of the composition, orwherein at least a portion of both the mineral and phosphate componentsare integrated within the composition. Other particularly preferredembodiments include those companion animal supplement compositions (forexample, biscuits or chews) wherein the at least a portion of themineral component is coated on the surface of the composition and atleast a portion of the phosphate component is integrated within thecomposition, or at least a portion of the phosphate component is coatedon the surface of the composition and at least a portion of the mineralcomponent is integrated within the composition, or wherein at least aportion of both the mineral and phosphate components are coated on thesurface of the composition, or wherein at least a portion of both themineral and phosphate components are integrated within the composition.

As an example, the composition may optionally comprise at least about0.05%, or at least about 0.1%, or at least about 0.2%, or at least about0.5%, or at least about 1% of the phosphate component, by weight of thecomposition. As a further example, the composition may optionallycomprise from about 0.05% to about 10%, or from about 0.1% to about 5%,from about 0.2% to about 4%, or from about 0.5% to about 4% of thephosphate component, by weight of the composition.

The compositions of the invention may be provided as any of a variety ofdosage forms, including food compositions or supplement compositionswhich are adapted for companion animal use. Examples will include foods(e.g., dog foods, cat foods, and the like) and supplements (e.g.,biscuits, chews, and the like).

Optionally, the composition herein may be a food composition such as adry composition (for example, kibble), semi-moist composition, wetcomposition, or any mixture thereof. Dry compositions, or those whichare semi-moist, are particularly preferred when used in accordance withthe present invention. Companion animal foods are particularlywell-known in the art.

Alternatively or additionally, the composition is a supplement, such asa companion animal chew or companion animal biscuit, or other treat fora companion animal, such as cat or dog treats. Companion animalbiscuits, such as dog biscuits, are well known in the art. Examples ofbiscuits include those described in the following documents: U.S. Pat.Nos. 5,405,836; 5,000,940; 5,000,943; 5,000,973; 5,094,870; and5,015,485. Chews are also widely known, and can be provided in a varietyof forms, including those prepared by baking, extrusion, injectionmolding, transfer molding, and/or compression molding. Typically, thetexture, pliancy and consistency of the molded articles encouragegnawing. Gnawing action allows the companion animal to softly penetratethe chewable pet toy, promoting clean, healthy teeth and fresh breath.Chews are typically consumed by the companion animal over a period of atleast about 1 minute, or at least about 2 minutes, or at least about 5minutes, or at least about 10 minutes, or at least about 30 minutes.Examples of typical chews are disclosed in the following documents: U.S.Pat. Nos. 6,379,725; 6,455,083; 5,922,379; 6,265,011; 6,517,877;6,274,182; 6,056,991; 6,159,516; 6,086,940; 6,110,521; 6,093,441;6,126,978; 6,180,161; 6,277,420; 6,238,726; 5,431,927; 6,228,418 and5,296,209 and U.S. patent application Publication Nos. 2002/0119241;2002/0119224; 2001/0043941; and 2002/0090444.

In one embodiment, the composition is nutritionally balanced. As usedherein, the term “nutritionally balanced,” with reference to thecomposition, means that the composition has known required nutrients tosustain life in proper amounts and proportion based on recommendationsof recognized authorities in the field of companion animal nutrition.Wherein the composition is a food composition, it is most preferablynutritionally balanced.

The compositions herein may optionally comprise one or more furthercomponents. Other components are beneficial for inclusion in thecompositions used herein, but are optional for purposes of theinvention. For example, the compositions herein advantageously comprisea source of protein, carbohydrate, and/or fat, preferably protein,carbohydrate, and fat.

Crude protein material may comprise vegetable proteins such as soybean,cottonseed, and peanut, or animal proteins such as casein, albumin, andmeat protein. Non-limiting examples of meat protein useful hereininclude a protein source selected from the group consisting of beef,pork, lamb, poultry, fish, vegetable, and mixtures thereof. Thecompositions may also contain other materials such as dried whey andother dairy by products.

The compositions of the present invention may further comprise a sourceof carbohydrate. Grains or cereals such as rice, corn, milo, sorghum,barley, alfalfa, wheat, and the like are illustrative sources. Soyprotein may be particularly useful herein, for example, with respect tocompanion animal chews.

One or more humectants may also be utilized. Humectants may beparticularly useful for extruded compositions such as, for example,chews. Examples of humectants include glycerin, sorbitol, xylitol,polyethylene glycols, propylene glycols, other edible polyhydricalcohols, and mixtures thereof. Wherein a humectant is utilized, thecomposition may optionally comprise from about 0.001% to about 25%, orfrom about 0.01% to about 20%, or from about 0.1% to about 15% ofhumectant, all by weight of the composition.

Optionally, the compositions herein are substantially free of rawhide.The term “substantially free of rawhide” means that the referencedcomposition comprises less than about 1% rawhide, preferably less thanabout 0.5%, and most preferably less than about 0.2% rawhide, all byweight of the composition.

Methods of the Present Invention

The methods of the present invention comprise orally administering(i.e., through ingestion) a composition of the present invention to acompanion animal to provide improvement in breath odor of the companionanimal, or treating oral cavity tartar (defined herein as includingcalculus), oral cavity plaque, periodontal disease, gingivitis,inhibition of bacterial growth in oral cavity, and combinations thereof,as applicable.

As used herein, the term “orally administering” with respect to thecompanion animal means that the animal ingests or a human is directed tofeed, or does feed, the animal one or more compositions herein. Whereinthe human is directed to feed the composition, such direction may bethat which instructs and/or informs the human that use of thecomposition may and/or will provide the referenced benefit, for example,improvement in breath odor, treatment of oral cavity plaque or tartar,or the like. For example, such direction may be oral direction (e.g.,through oral instruction from, for example, a veterinarian or otherhealth professional), radio or television media (i.e., advertisement),or written direction (e.g., through written direction from, for example,a veterinarian or other health professional (e.g., scripts), salesprofessional or organization (e.g., through, for example, marketingbrochures, pamphlets, or other instructive paraphernalia), written media(e.g., internet, electronic mail, or other computer-related media)),and/or packaging associated with the composition (e.g., a label presenton a container holding the composition). As used herein, “written” meansthrough words, pictures, symbols, and/or other visible descriptors. Suchinformation need not utilize the actual words used herein, for example,“odor”, “oral”, “cavity”, “companion”, or “adapted for use”, but ratheruse of words, pictures, symbols, and the like conveying the same orsimilar meaning are contemplated within the scope of this invention.

The compositions described herein may be used as a supplement toordinary dietetic requirements or may serve as the primary food for thecompanion animal (and, as such, the supplements or foods may benutritionally balanced). Administration may be on as as-needed oras-desired basis, for example, once-monthly, once-weekly, or daily(including multiple times daily). When utilized as a supplement toordinary dietetic requirements, the composition may be administereddirectly to the companion animal or otherwise contacted with or admixedwith companion animal food. When utilized as a companion animal food,administration will be well-known to those of ordinary skill. The amountof composition utilized may be dependent on a variety of factors,including the quality of oral health of the animal, preference of theanimal as determined by the guardian of the animal or other personadministering the composition, the quality of the companion animal food,and size, age, or breed or the companion animal.

Methods of Analysis

The present compositions may be utilized to enhance the oral health, orassociated conditions (for example, in the case of gingivitis) of thecompanion animal. Various methods of demonstrating such enhancements orimprovements, or other relevant methods, are well-known to those ofordinary skill in the art. As examples, the following providesillustrations of certain methods which may be used. These methods arenot intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Release from Surface of Composition: In order to be effective at least aportion of the mineral component utilized in the compositions must bedissolved in the saliva of the companion animal. In order to test forthis a biscuit or treat or chew containing a known amount of mineralcomponent which is coated on the surface of the composition is placedinto a 50 mL test tube and about 5 mL of water is added. A filtering capis placed over the top and the contents are shaken briefly (about 15seconds). The tube is then inverted and the water containing dissolvedsubstances passes through the filter and is collected in a separate tube(“dissolved coating”) while undissolved materials are retained above thefilter. The water sample is then assayed for the amount of mineralcomponent, or for effectiveness in in vitro test systems. This iscompared against the known amount of mineral component which was coatedon the surface of the composition, in order to determine solubility.

Malodor Reduction: Reduction in oral cavity malodor can be measured inaccordance with a variety of techniques. An illustrative technique isthe Kleinberg Salivary Sediment System Model, which is generallysummarized as follows. Fresh saliva is collected from a companion animaland centrifuged to concentrate the cellular debris, microbes, foodparticles, and the like. A portion of the sediment is added back, thenthe tube is treated with control substances, with mineral component,phosphate component, or with “dissolved coating” (see Release fromSurface of Composition, above). After times ranging from 2 to 24 hours,the odor emanating from the tube is measured organoletpically or using aHalimeter (Interscan Corp., Chatsworth, Calif.). The method is morespecifically described in “The Biological Basis of Oral MalodorFormation”, Kleinberg and Codpilly, Chapter 2 in Bad Breath; ResearchPerspectives, M. Rosenberg Editor, Ramot Publishing, Tel AvivUniversity, 1995.

Inhibition of Oral Cavity Microbial Growth: Saliva is collected from acompanion animal and diluted 1:100 in Mueller Hinton broth medium. 3 mLof this inoculum is pipetted into sterile culture tubes, and variousamounts of a solution of mineral component, phosphate component, or“dissolved coating” (see Release from Surface of Composition, above) isadded. The tubes are incubated in 5% CO₂ atmosphere and observed formicroorganism growth after 24 or 48 hours.

Inhibition of Bioplaque Films: This assay determines the ability of agiven composition to prevent or inhibit growth of harmful organisms inplaque or of organisms which produce noxious odors in the oral cavity.Hydroxyapatite chips (simulating a tooth surface) are immersed in freshcanine or feline saliva-based medium with gentle agitation to initiatebiofilm growth on the chip. The chip is continuously bathed with thesaliva-based medium and intermittently treated with, control, mineralcomponent, phosphate component, or “dissolved coating” (see Release fromSurface of Composition, above). At the end of the experiment thebiofilms are evaluated for effectiveness of the treatments. Severalvariations on the plaque biofilm model are available, for example asdescribed in Guggenheim et al., “Validation of an in vitro biofilm modelof supragingival plaque,” Journal of Dental Research, Vol. 80, pp.363-370 (2001).

Methods of Making

The presently described compositions are made according to methods whichwill be well known by the ordinarily skilled artisan. To illustrate, thecompositions of the present invention may be prepared by mixing allcomponents singularly or in suitable combinations together, and in waterwhere appropriate, agitating mechanically until all of the ingredientshave been solubilized, dispersed, or otherwise mixed, as applicable.Wherein certain processes such as extrusion (to form kibbles or chews,for example) or baking are utilized, such processes will be well-knownin the art.

EXAMPLES

The following are non-limiting examples of the present compositionswhich are prepared utilizing conventional methods. The followingexamples are provided to illustrate the invention and are not intendedto limit the scope thereof in any manner.

Example 1

A mineral component is prepared by combining 2.19 g zinc sulfatemonohydrate, 2.88 g manganese chloride tetrahydrate, and 0.79 g coppersulfate pentahydrate in a mortar and pestle. The powders are finelyground and thoroughly mixed. Savory masking flavor, at an amount of 3%,by weight, is added to the mineral component. A 12 gram baked dogbiscuit is painted on one side with a 30% solution of corn syrup solidsglazing (N-TACK®, commercially available from National Starch andChemical Co., Bridgewater, N.J., U.S.A). The combination of mineralcomponent and savory masking flavor is sprinkled onto the wet glazing inan amount of 121 milligrams of the combination per biscuit, and theglazing is dried.

Example 2

Zinc sulfate monohydrate (2.20 g), manganese sulfate monohydrate (2.46g), and copper sulfate pentahydrate (0.79 g) are combined in a mortarand pestle to a fine powder and triturated together. To this mixture isadded 26.58 g granular mannitol carrier (PEARLITOL 100 SD, RoquetteCorp.) using a standard pharmacy practice of ordered mixing. Thegranular mannitol carrier aids in masking the flavor of the mineralcomponent and greatly enhances the dissolution of the minerals insaliva. A 4 gram extruded dog chew is painted on one side with a 30%solution of corn syrup solids glazing (N-TACK®, commercially availablefrom National Starch and Chemical Co., Bridgewater, N.J., U.S.A). Thewet side of the biscuit is pressed into the mixture of mineral componentand mannitol carrier and any loose powder is gently tapped off. About185 milligrams of material remains on the surface of the biscuit. Theglazing solution is dried in a convection oven at 70° C. for about 20minutes.

Example 3

50 grams of water is added to a beaker and stirred vigorously. 50 gramssodium polyphosphate iss added, and stirring continues about 1 houruntil a clear viscous solution is obtained. A 4 gram baked dog biscuitis dipped into the viscous solution and allowed to drain until about 400mg solution remains. The biscuit is then dried in a 70° C. convectionoven for about 20 minutes, and is then cooled to room temperature.

6.59 grams zinc suflate monohydrate and 7.39 grams manganese sulfatemonohydrate are combined in a mortar and pestle and finely ground. 20.96grams granular mannitol (PEARLITOL 100 SD) is added to the mineralcomponent using the principal of ordered mixing, and mixed thoroughly bytrituration.

The bottom side of the polyphosphate-coated biscuit is painted with a30% water solution of corn syrup solids glazing (N-TACK®, commerciallyavailable from National Starch and Chemical Co., Bridgewater, N.J.,U.S.A), and then the glazed side of the biscuit is pressed into a bed ofthe combination of mineral component and mannitol carrier. The biscuitis tapped to remove loosely held powder to leave about 67 mg powder. Thebiscuit is then dried in a 70° C. convection oven for about 20 minutes.Savory flavor is sprinkled on top of the powdered side of the biscuit.

Example 4

44.4 grams water is added to a beaker and stirring is started. Withconstant stirring, 34.7 grams GLASS H polyphosphate is added andstirring is continued until a clear solution is obtained. To thissolution the following are added: 2.72 grams zinc sulfate monohydrate,3.06 grams manganese sulfate monohydrate, and 0.98 grams copper sulfatepentahydrate. Stirring is continued until a clear, blue-tinged solutionis obtained. 4 gram baked dog biscuits are dipped into the solution andallowed to drain until about 500 mg solution is adhered to each biscuit.The biscuits are dried in a 70° C. convection oven for about 30 minutes.

Example 5

48.5 grams water is added to a beaker. While stirring, 3 grams copper(II) gluconate is added. While stirring vigorously, 48.5 grams sodiumpolyphosphate (GLASS H) is sprinkled in, and stirring continues until aclear, blue tinted solution is obtained.

12 gram, paw-shaped dog biscuits are dipped into the solution of copperand phosphate component and allowed to drain until about 928 mg solutionremains on the biscuit. Drying is carried out in a 70° C. convectionoven for about 30 minutes.

A coating powder is prepared by combining 2.63 grams zinc sulfatemonohydrate and 2.96 grams manganese sulfate monohydrate in a mortar andpestle. These are finely ground. 8.39 grams granular mannitol is addedusing the standard principal of ordered mixing, and trituration with aspatula. 2.34 grams spray-dried chicken meat and 1.26 grams spray driedchicken liver are added to the powder and mixed until uniform.

The bottom side of the biscuits are painted with a 30% water solution ofcorn syrup solids glazing (N-TACK®, commercially available from NationalStarch and Chemical Co., Bridgewater, N.J., U.S.A), and then the wetside is pressed into a bed of powder as described in the previousparagraph. The biscuits are placed powder side up on a tray and dried ina 70° C. convection oven for about 30 minutes. The total amount ofpowder applied per biscuit is approximately 293 milligrams.

Example 6

A biscuit which may be utilized for any of Examples 1 and 3-5 may beprepared using the following components in the indicated amounts:Component Amount (by weight percent) Rosemary Extract 0.1 Emulsifier 1Vegetable Oil 1.5 Beet Pulp (from sugar beet) 4 Potassium Sorbate 0.05Dehydrated Parsley 0.5 Meat Flavor 0.8 Wheat Germ 5 Oats 15 Corn Meal 15Chicken By-Product Meal 20 Whole Wheat Flour Remainder

The components are combined, shaped as desired, and baked to formbiscuits.

Example 7

A chew which may be utilized for Example 2 may be prepared using thefollowing components in the indicated amounts: Component Amount (byweight percent) Sodium Tripolyphosphate 1.8 Rosemary Extract 0.1Potassium Sorbate 0.06 Flavor 0.6 Vegetable Oil 1.5 Beet Pulp 5 Glycerin10 Chicken by-product Meal 10 Wheat Flour 23 Soy Flour Remainder

The components are combined and extruded according to conventionalmethods as desired to form the chew. Optionally, the chew is prepared bycombining all components except for the mineral component, extruding athigh temperature, feeding glycerin continuously into a preconditioneruntil the proper consistency or texture is obtained. The product maythen be cut to desired length and cooled.

The chews may then be spray-coated with a suspension of the mineralcomponent in any fat or oil. The following technique may beillustrative: A dispersion is prepared containing 3 grams of finelypowdered zinc malate and 3 grams of finely powdered manganese malate in100 grams refined liquid chicken fat. This dispersion is sprayed onto a25 gram chew at a rate of 0.33 grams of the dispersion per chew.

Example 8

Two kibble compositions having the following components at theapproximate indicated amounts are prepared using methods which arestandard in the art and are fed to dogs, each resulting in improved oralcavity health, including reduction in tartar or plaque and improvedbreath odor. For Example 1A, the copper source is integrated throughoutthe kibble, while the zinc source is coated on the surface of the kibble(along with the palatant). For Example 1B, the zinc source is integratedthroughout the kibble, while the hexametaphosphate is coated on thesurface of the kibble (along with the palatant). Example 1A Example 1B(Component Amount indicated (Component Amount indicated Component as Wt%) as Wt %) Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate 0.03 0 Zinc sulfate monohydrate0.1 0.15 Hexametaphosphate 0 0.3 Palatant 0.1 0.08 Poultry, PoultryBy-product 44 47 Meal, and Fish Meal Animal Fat 8 6 Beet Pulp and 2.2 3fructooligosaccharide Salts 2.5 2 Vitamins and Minerals* 1 1 Minors 3.54 Grains Remainder Remainder (corn, sorghum, barley, rice)*Vitamins and Minerals include: Vitamin E, beta-carotene and Vitamin A,Zinc Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, ManganousOxide, Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Vitamin B₁₂, Vitamin B₁, Niacin,Vitamin B₂, Vitamin B₆, Vitamin D₃, Folic Acid.

Example 9

Two studies are conducted to measure the effects of combining aphosphate component with a mineral component in a surface-coatedcompanion animal food. A short chain polyphosphate (pyrophosphate) isanalyzed in a feline feeding model, and a long chain polyphosphate isanalyzed in a canine feeding model.

A general protocol is as follows: Animals are housed at accreditedfacilities. All studies involve a cross-over design to evaluateproducts. At the start of each test period, all animals receiveanesthesia followed by a thorough dental prophylaxis to remove allsupra- and sub-gingival deposits. After prophylaxis, each animal ismaintained on a dry diet (companion animal food) calculated to providethe appropriate energy to maintain weight for the duration of the testperiod. All studies have a minimum feeding period of four weeks and amaximum feeding period of nine weeks. At the end of the test period,animals are examined for presence of calculus. Following examination, aprophylaxis is performed and the animals are returned to theirrespective housing and assigned new diet for second period. For all oralexams, target tooth sites for canine studies include the buccal surfaceson both sides of the mouth at positions: Upper Jaw: I3, C, P2, P3, P4,and M1 and Lower Jaw: C, P2, P3, P4, and M1. Target tooth sites forfeline studies include the buccal surfaces on both sides of the mouth atpositions: Upper Jaw: C, P3, and P4 and Lower Jaw: C, P3, P4, and M1.

Results are as follows: Feline Study N Calculus Score Percent ReductionDiet 1. 28 2.40 — Diet + Pyrophosphate Diet 2. 28  2.02* 16% Diet +Pyrophsophate + 250 ppm zinc coated on surface of diet*Diet 2 results in statistically less calculus than Diet 1.

Canine Study N Calculus Score Percent Reduction Diet 1. 28 3.02 — Diet +GLASS H Diet 2. 28  2.57* 15% Diet + GLASS H + 500 ppm zinc coated onsurface of diet + 150 ppm copper coated on surface of diet*Diet 2 results in statistically less calculus than Diet 1.

The data shows that the combination of mineral and phosphate componentsreduces the growth rate of calculus in both canines and felines versusthe same level of phosphate component alone.

All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the Invention are, inrelevant part, incorporated herein by reference, the citation of anydocument is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior artwith respect to the present invention.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

1. An edible composition comprising an amount of a soluble mineralcomponent, wherein the soluble mineral component comprises two or moreminerals selected from the group consisting of zinc, manganese, tin,copper, and mixtures thereof, wherein the amount is an effective amountfor use as an oral medicament, and wherein the edible composition isadapted for use by a companion animal.
 2. The edible compositionaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) when the composition comprises zinc,the composition comprises at least about 0.001% zinc ion, by weight ofthe composition; (b) when the composition comprises tin, the compositioncomprises at least about 0.0001% tin ion, by weight of the composition;(c) when the composition comprises copper, the composition comprises atleast about 0.0005% copper ion, by weight of the composition; and (d)when the composition comprises manganese, the composition comprises atleast about 0.0001% manganese ion, by weight of the composition.
 3. Theedible composition according to claim 2 wherein at least a portion ofthe mineral component is coated on the surface of the composition. 4.The edible composition according to claim 3 wherein at least about 50%of the mineral component, by weight of the mineral component, is coatedon the surface of the composition.
 5. The edible composition accordingto claim 2 comprising at least about 0.02% of the mineral component, byweight of the composition.
 6. The edible composition according to claim5 wherein: (a) when the mineral component comprises zinc, the mineralcomponent comprises a salt selected from the group consisting of zincsulfate, zinc gluconate, zinc chloride, zinc citrate, zinc lactate, zincmalate, and mixtures thereof; (b) when the mineral component comprisestin, the mineral component comprises a salt selected from the groupconsisting of tin lactate, tin gluconate, tin acetate, tin sulfate, tinmalate, and mixtures thereof; (c) when the mineral component comprisescopper, the mineral component comprises a salt selected from the groupconsisting of copper chloride, copper gluconate, copper sulfate, copperbisglycinate, copper lactate, copper malate, copper acetate, andmixtures thereof; and (d) when the mineral component comprisesmanganese, the mineral component comprises a salt selected from thegroup consisting of manganese chloride, manganese sulfate, manganesegluconate, manganese acetate, and mixtures thereof.
 7. The ediblecomposition according to claim 6 wherein: (a) when the compositioncomprises zinc, the composition comprises from about 0.001% to about 1%zinc ion, by weight of the composition; (b) when the compositioncomprises tin, the composition comprises from about 0.0005% to about0.1% tin ion, by weight of the composition; (c) when the compositioncomprises copper, the composition comprises from about 0.0005% to about0.1% copper ion, by weight of the composition; and (d) when thecomposition comprises manganese, the composition comprises from about0.001% to about 0.5% manganese ion, by weight of the composition.
 8. Theedible composition according to claim 7 further comprising a furtheramount of a phosphate component, wherein the further amount is aneffective amount for use as an oral medicament.
 9. The ediblecomposition according to claim 8 wherein at least a portion of thephosphate component is a pyrophosphate.
 10. The edible compositionaccording to claim 8 wherein at least a portion of the phosphatecomponent is a polyphosphate.
 11. The edible composition according toclaim 8 comprising three or more minerals selected from the groupconsisting of zinc, manganese, tin, copper, and mixtures thereof. 12.The edible composition according to claim 8 which is a companion animalbiscuit.
 13. The edible composition according to claim 8 which is acompanion animal chew.
 14. The edible composition according to claim 8which is a companion animal food.
 15. The edible composition accordingto claim 8 which is substantially free of rawhide.
 16. An ediblecomposition comprising: (a) an amount of a soluble mineral component,wherein the soluble mineral component comprises one or more mineralsselected from the group consisting of zinc, manganese, tin, copper, andmixtures thereof; wherein the amount is an effective amount for use asan oral medicament; and (b) a further amount of a phosphate component,wherein the further amount is an effective amount for use as an oralmedicament; wherein the edible composition is selected from the groupconsisting of companion animal foods companion animal supplements, andcombinations thereof, wherein the companion animal supplement is not achew.
 17. The edible composition according to claim 16 wherein: (a) whenthe composition comprises zinc, the composition comprises at least about0.001% zinc ion, by weight of the composition; (b) when the compositioncomprises tin, the composition comprises at least about 0.0001% tin ion,by weight of the composition; (c) when the composition comprises copper,the composition comprises at least about 0.0005% copper ion, by weightof the composition; and (d) when the composition comprises manganese,the composition comprises at least about 0.0001% manganese ion, byweight of the composition.
 18. The edible composition according to claim17 wherein at least a portion of the mineral component is coated on thesurface of the composition.
 19. The edible composition according toclaim 18 wherein at least about 50% of the mineral component, by weightof the mineral component, is coated on the surface of the composition.20. The edible composition according to claim 19 comprising at leastabout 0.02% of the mineral component, by weight of the composition. 21.The edible composition according to claim 20 wherein: (a) when themineral component comprises zinc, the mineral component comprises a saltselected from the group consisting of zinc sulfate, zinc gluconate, zincchloride, zinc citrate, zinc lactate, zinc malate, and mixtures thereof;(b) when the mineral component comprises tin, the mineral componentcomprises a salt selected from the group consisting of tin lactate, tingluconate, tin acetate, tin sulfate, tin malate, and mixtures thereof;(c) when the mineral component comprises copper, the mineral componentcomprises a salt selected from the group consisting of copper chloride,copper gluconate, copper sulfate, copper bisglycinate, copper lactate,copper malate, copper acetate, and mixtures thereof; and (d) when themineral component comprises manganese, the mineral component comprises asalt selected from the group consisting of manganese chloride, manganesesulfate, manganese gluconate, manganese acetate, and mixtures thereof.22. The edible composition according to claim 21 wherein: (a) when thecomposition comprises zinc, the composition comprises from about 0.001%to about 1% zinc ion, by weight of the composition; (b) when thecomposition comprises tin, the composition comprises from about 0.0005%to about 0.1% tin ion, by weight of the composition; (c) when thecomposition comprises copper, the composition comprises from about0.0005% to about 0.1% copper ion, by weight of the composition; and (d)when the composition comprises manganese, the composition comprises fromabout 0.001% to about 0.5% manganese ion, by weight of the composition.23. The edible composition according to claim 22 comprising at leastabout 0.05% of the phosphate component, by weight of the composition.24. The edible composition according to claim 23 wherein at least aportion of the phosphate component is a pyrophosphate.
 25. The ediblecomposition according to claim 23 wherein at least a portion of thephosphate component is a polyphosphate.
 26. An edible composition,comprising: (a) an amount of a soluble mineral component comprising oneor more minerals selected from the group consisting of zinc, manganese,tin, copper, and mixtures thereof, wherein the amount is an effectiveamount for use as an oral medicament, and wherein at least a portion ofthe mineral component is coated on the surface of the ediblecomposition; (b) a further amount of a phosphate component, wherein thefurther amount is an effective amount for use as an oral medicament;wherein the edible composition is a companion animal chew.
 27. Theedible composition according to claim 26 which is substantially free ofrawhide.
 28. The edible composition according to claim 27 wherein themineral component comprises at least two minerals selected from thegroup consisting of zinc, manganese, tin, copper, and mixtures thereof.29. The edible composition according to claim 28 comprising at leastabout 0.01% of the mineral component, by weight of the composition. 30.The edible composition according to claim 29 wherein at least a portionof the phosphate component is integrated within the edible composition.31. The edible composition according to claim 30 comprising at leastabout 0.02% of the mineral component, by weight of the composition. 32.The edible composition according to claim 31 wherein: (a) when themineral component comprises zinc, the mineral component comprises a saltselected from the group consisting of zinc sulfate, zinc gluconate, zincchloride, zinc citrate, zinc lactate, zinc malate, and mixtures thereof;(b) when the mineral component comprises tin, the mineral componentcomprises a salt selected from the group consisting of tin lactate, tingluconate, tin acetate, tin sulfate, tin malate, and mixtures thereof;(c) when the mineral component comprises copper, the mineral componentcomprises a salt selected from the group consisting of copper chloride,copper gluconate, copper sulfate, copper bisglycinate, copper lactate,copper malate, copper acetate, and mixtures thereof; and (d) when themineral component comprises manganese, the mineral component comprises asalt selected from the group consisting of manganese chloride, manganesesulfate, manganese gluconate, manganese acetate, and mixtures thereof.33. The edible composition according to claim 32 wherein at least aportion of the phosphate component is a polyphosphate.
 34. The ediblecomposition according to claim 32 wherein at least a portion of thephosphate component is a pyrophosphate.
 35. The edible compositionaccording to claim 32 comprising at least about 0.05% of the phosphatecomponent, by weight of the composition.
 36. The edible compositionaccording to claim 35 comprising at least about 0.5% of the phosphatecomponent, by weight of the composition.
 37. An edible compositioncomprising: (a) an amount of a soluble mineral component comprising amineral selected from the group consisting of zinc, manganese, tin,copper, and mixtures thereof, wherein the amount is an effective amountfor use as an oral medicament; and (b) a further amount of a phosphatecomponent, wherein the further amount is an effective amount for use asan oral medicament, and wherein at least a portion of the phosphatecomponent is coated on the surface of the edible composition; whereinthe edible composition is a companion animal chew.
 38. The ediblecomposition according to claim 37 which is substantially free ofrawhide.
 39. The edible composition according to claim 38 comprising atleast about 0.01% of the mineral component, by weight of thecomposition.
 40. The edible composition according to claim 39 wherein atleast a portion of the mineral component is integrated within the ediblecomposition.
 41. The edible composition according to claim 40 wherein atleast a portion of the mineral component is coated on the surface of theedible composition.
 42. The edible composition according to claim 40comprising at least about 0.02% of the mineral component, by weight ofthe composition.
 43. The edible composition according to claim 42wherein: (a) when the mineral component comprises zinc, the mineralcomponent comprises a salt selected from the group consisting of zincsulfate, zinc gluconate, zinc chloride, zinc citrate, zinc lactate, zincmalate, and mixtures thereof; (b) when the mineral component comprisestin, the mineral component comprises a salt selected from the groupconsisting of tin lactate, tin gluconate, tin acetate, tin sulfate, tinmalate, and mixtures thereof; (c) when the mineral component comprisescopper, the mineral component comprises a salt selected from the groupconsisting of copper chloride, copper gluconate, copper sulfate, copperbisglycinate, copper lactate, copper malate, copper acetate, andmixtures thereof; and (d) when the mineral component comprisesmanganese, the mineral component comprises a salt selected from thegroup consisting of manganese chloride, manganese sulfate, manganesegluconate, manganese acetate, and mixtures thereof.
 44. The ediblecomposition according to claim 43 wherein at least a portion of thephosphate component is a polyphosphate.
 45. The edible compositionaccording to claim 43 wherein at least a portion of the phosphatecomponent is a pyrophosphate.
 46. The edible composition according toclaim 43 comprising at least about 0.05% of the phosphate component, byweight of the composition.
 47. The edible composition according to claim46 comprising at least about 0.5% of the phosphate component, by weightof the composition.
 48. An edible composition comprising: (a) an amountof a soluble mineral component comprising a mineral selected from thegroup consisting of manganese, tin, copper, and mixtures thereof,wherein the amount is an effective amount for use as an oral medicament;(b) a further amount of a phosphate component, wherein the furtheramount is an effective amount for use as an oral medicament; wherein theedible composition is a companion animal chew.
 49. The ediblecomposition according to claim 48 which is substantially free ofrawhide.
 50. The edible composition according to claim 49 comprising atleast about 0.01% of the mineral component, by weight of thecomposition.
 51. The edible composition according to claim 50 wherein:(a) when the mineral component comprises tin, the mineral componentcomprises a salt selected from the group consisting of tin lactate, tingluconate, tin acetate, tin sulfate, tin malate, and mixtures thereof;(b) when the mineral component comprises copper, the mineral componentcomprises a salt selected from the group consisting of copper chloride,copper gluconate, copper sulfate, copper bisglycinate, copper lactate,copper malate, copper acetate, and mixtures thereof; and (c) when themineral component comprises manganese, the mineral component comprises asalt selected from the group consisting of manganese chloride, manganesesulfate, manganese gluconate, manganese acetate, and mixtures thereof.52. The edible composition according to claim 51 wherein at least aportion of the phosphate component is a polyphosphate.
 53. The ediblecomposition according to claim 51 wherein at least a portion of thephosphate component is a pyrophosphate.
 54. The edible compositionaccording to claim 51 comprising at least about 0.5% of the phosphatecomponent and at least about 0.02% of the mineral component, all byweight of the composition.
 55. A method selected from the groupconsisting of treating oral cavity tartar, oral cavity plaque, oralcavity bacterial growth, periodontal disease, gingivitis, breath odor,and combinations thereof in a companion animal comprising orallyadministering to the companion animal the edible composition accordingto claim
 1. 56. A method selected from the group consisting of treatingoral cavity tartar, oral cavity plaque, oral cavity bacterial growth,periodontal disease, gingivitis, breath odor, and combinations thereofin a companion animal comprising orally administering to the companionanimal the edible composition according to claim
 16. 57. A methodselected from the group consisting of treating oral cavity tartar, oralcavity plaque, oral cavity bacterial growth, periodontal disease,gingivitis, breath odor, and combinations thereof in a companion animalcomprising orally administering to the companion animal the ediblecomposition according to claim
 26. 58. A method selected from the groupconsisting of treating oral cavity tartar, oral cavity plaque, oralcavity bacterial growth, periodontal disease, gingivitis, breath odor,and combinations thereof in a companion animal comprising orallyadministering to the companion animal the edible composition accordingto claim
 37. 59. A method selected from the group consisting of treatingoral cavity tartar, oral cavity plaque, oral cavity bacterial growth,periodontal disease, gingivitis, breath odor, and combinations thereofin a companion animal comprising orally administering to the companionanimal the edible composition according to claim 48.